How To Install Ceramic Tile In Bathroom

Do-it-yourself homeowners may be looking to learn how to install ceramic tile in a bathroom. When upgrading bathrooms, installing new tile is a great way to up the value and add durability to floors and walls. Learning how to install tile in a bathroom can save your remodeling budget and allow you to splurge on some extras.

To install tile in a bathroom, you will need:

• Grout
• Mortar or adhesive
• A trowel
• A float
• Ceramic tile
• A bucket
• Sponges
• Grout sealer
• A cement board
• Galvanized screws
• A level
• Fiberglass tape
• A tile saw (this can be rented)
• Tile snips
• Spacers

1. Pick out your tile. The first step in installing ceramic tile in a bathroom is to pick out the tile you want. The tile you choose will determine the type of mortar or adhesive you need as well as the size of trowel that should be used. Once you choose the ceramic tile you want to install in your bathroom, you will need to choose the color of grout you want to use.
2. Measure. Measure the space you are going to tile to determine the amount of ceramic tile you will need. Add ten percent to the amount of tile you figure you will need to account for mistakes, breakage or cut pieces. For example, if you need a hundred tiles, you will want to buy 110 tiles.
3. Dry run. Before you begin, lay out your ceramic tiles. This will help you determine the layout you wish to use.
4. Install the cement board. Whether you are installing tile on a bathroom floor or on the walls, you will want to use a cement backer board. The mortar adheres better to the backer board and it is sturdier than drywall.
5. Installing the tile. Once you have mixed the mortar as specified in its directions, use your notched trowel to spread an even layer where the first ceramic tile will go. Don’t get too far ahead of yourself when spreading the mortar. It can dry out and will need to be scraped off. Place spacers between each tile. Repeat until the space is covered. After cleaning any mortar off the tiles, let them dry according to the manufacturer's directions.
6. Grouting the tile. After the spacers are removed, mix the grout according to the directions. Apply grout with the float using a back and forth motion to push the grout into the cracks. Remove excess grout by pulling the float across the tile at a 45-degree angle.
7. Cleaning the tile. Once grouting is complete, clean the ceramic tiles with clean water and a sponge. Step carefully between the grout lines and wipe the tiles with a sponge. Rinse the sponge often and get clean water as needed.